Major champion and Solheim Cup legend, Suzann Pettersen, named Global Ambassador for new Golf Academy in Sotogrande
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Sotogrande, 18 July 2025 – Sotogrande has unveiled the rebranding of Almenara to, The Alto Club, alongside the launch of its much-anticipated Golf Academy, as part of the SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort, further adding to the world-class golf and lifestyle experience in Sotogrande.
Widely recognised for hosting some of Spain’s finest golf experiences, Sotogrande is home to iconic venues, Real Club Valderrama, Real Club de Golf Sotogrande and La Reserva Club. Now, The Alto Club brings a bold and contemporary new vision to the region - combining an exciting 18-hole championship course, a brand-new par-3 layout designed by Manuel Piñero, and a state-of-the-art Golf Academy located on the former Alcornoques nine-hole loop of Almenara’s 27-hole course.
The Alto Club Academy, which will officially open on the 1st of September, is the first of its kind on the Costa del Sol and has been designed to support players of all levels - from beginners to aspiring professionals - with a focus on accessibility, fun, and community. More than a training facility, it aims to be a welcoming space where the local community, club members, visiting golfers, and resort guests can discover or deepen their love for the game.
The academy complements the existing 18-hole championship layout at The Alto Club, originally designed by Dave Thomas and later refined by Spanish golfing legend, Manuel Piñero. Just steps away, guests of SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort enjoy five-star accommodation, an award-winning spa, and elevated gastronomy - creating a seamless connection between world-class golf, wellbeing, and hospitality.
By the hand of Solheim Cup legend Suzann Pettersen
At the heart of this new chapter is two-time major champion and Solheim Cup-winning captain, Suzann Pettersen, who joins as Global Ambassador for The Alto Club Golf Academy. Her leadership will shape the Academy’s vision, values, and training philosophy - bringing world-class insight and inspiration to every aspect of the programme.
“My time competing was a defining chapter, but this feels just as meaningful,” said Pettersen. “I’ve always dreamed of building something lasting - a place where people of all ages and levels feel welcome, supported, and inspired to get better. That’s exactly what we’re creating at The Alto Club Golf Academy.”
The Golf Academy will feature a Toptracer-equipped driving range with natural grass and covered artificial tee lines, two dedicated swing analysis suites featuring Foresight and Swing Catalyst technology, custom fitting, short-game areas with multiple greens and bunkers, and night-time training access. A newly designed nine-hole par-3 course will also provide an ideal environment for sharpening players' iron play and short game, with holes ranging from 200m down to 80m.
Tailored coaching programmes will be available year-round, covering every aspect of development, from full-swing mechanics and course management to mental approach and competitive preparation. Whether visitors are just starting out, returning to the game, or training seriously, the Academy is purpose-built to support their progress in a welcoming, structured environment.
“We are proud to introduce a facility that reflects the spirit of Sotogrande: refined, forward-thinking, and rooted in quality,” said Stéphane Menou, General Manager of SO/ Sotogrande and The Alto Club. “With Suzann’s leadership and the support of our wider community, The Alto Club Golf Academy is set to become one of the most exciting and inclusive golf training destinations in Europe.”
With the opening of the Golf Academy, The Alto Club continues to build on Sotogrande’s legacy as one of Europe’s most revered golf destinations.
To know more about The Alto Club, head to: altogolfclub.com
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About Sotogrande SA
Sotogrande SA, founded in 1962, is the promoter and developer of the “Sotogrande®️, Andalucía” brand.
Located in the province of Cádiz around the Guadiaro River, it occupies an area that covers 20 km2 from the Mediterranean Sea to the foothills of the Sierra Almenara.
This residential and leisure destination has a community of 2,500 permanent international homes and approximately 8,000 in high season. It houses more than 300 companies and one of the best international schools in Spain, Sotogrande International School.
It is also one of the main sports destinations in Europe where you can practice water sports, tennis, polo and of course golf, as it has four championship golf courses.
Easily accessible from major European cities (Gibraltar and Malaga airports) and 30 minutes west of Marbella, it was founded in 1962 by businessman and philanthropist Colonel Joseph McMicking. sotogrande.com/the-developer/
The destination has come a long way since the new owners took the reins in 2014. The first step they took as part of the investment project was the repair of the roads, the improvement of the infrastructure and gardens of the complex. The emblematic marina of Sotogrande® came alive with a new program of activities and the opening of new restaurants, cafes and boutiques.
La Reserva Club is the next chapter in the history of the famous Sotogrande®, a residential sotogrande.com/gated-communities/ and leisure club www.lareservaclubsotogrande.com that occupies an area of 600 hectares composed of an 18-hole golf course, one of the best in Spain, two restaurants, tennis courts and padel tennis, a beach club that has a sandy beach, semi-Olympic pool for adults only and lagoon for water sports such as paddle surfing, kayaking or jet boarding, as well as a wellness area and kids club. www.lareservaclubsotogrande.com/es/el-club/
Nature and refinement play an important role, as well as its low density with a construction of only 25% of the land – residents benefit from vast green vistas and live surrounded by the natural environment. This private estate is a place where you can live and enjoy special moments with family and friends, offering them what truly matters: security, privacy, a family-friendly atmosphere, and first-class amenities thanks to the great lifestyle and numerous activities available year-round.
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For more information, contact:
Leonardo Izzi
Head of GMS Destinations
leo@gmsagency.com
T: +44 (0) 1438 718 399
M: +351 96 840 3811